Tips for Better Oral Health

We all want a beautiful smile. We can achieve this if we practice proper oral hygiene or get help from dental professionals. Here are some tips for better oral health:

Brush Regularly

Use a toothbrush with soft and thin bristles–this is perfect for removing dirt and build-up. Brush in a circular motion and use toothpaste recommended by your dentist. For example, if you have sensitive teeth, use toothpaste with potassium ions. Electronic toothbrushes are also highly recommended. Check the label and make sure it has passed quality tests. Some experts recommend brushing two to three times daily.

Floss Daily

Flossing regularly is even more important than brushing; even the best electronic toothbrush cannot get in between teeth. Floss removes leftover food particles in tight spaces and helps prevent bad breath, cavities, plaque, and tartar.

Watch your Diet

Sugary foods cause cavities for a reason: bacteria convert sugar into acid that erodes the teeth enamel. To avoid damage, rinse your mouth after every meal or drink water in between bites. While water won’t kill bacteria, it helps flush out food deposits.

Don’t Smoke

Smoking can kill you, and it can also kill your gums. Smoking causes bad breath, teeth stains, plaque, tartar and tooth loss. It is also related to an increased risk of oral cancer.

See Your Dentist Regularly

Visit your dentist once or twice a year. Regular dental appointments are preventive and help correct dental problems before they worsen.

Meet Dr. Matiasevich, DDS

As a second-generation dentist, Dr. Matiasevich was raised in Santa Cruz. Dr. Matiasevich completed his undergraduate work in economics at the University of California Irvine and then attended the University of Southern California for his dental degree.